Former Scotland international Stephen McManus and current international Kirsty Smith last night launched the nominations for the 2018 Scottish FA Grassroots Awards presented by McDonald’s and the Sunday Mail.

The duo attended grassroots community club Pollock United – home of last year’s winner of the People’s Choice Award, Jane Lavery – where they witnessed a sample of the fantastic work conducted at grassroots level, with players from the club enjoying both a Mini Kickers and Para-Football training session.

The Scottish FA Grassroots Awards recognise the army of grassroots volunteers and football clubs all over Scotland, celebrating the impact they have amongst their local communities.

As the longest standing supporter of grassroots football in the UK, McDonald’s continues to champion those selfless volunteers who enable children and young adults to play and enjoy grassroots football in a safe, friendly and welcoming environment regardless of age, gender or disability.

Every year the awards receive thousands of nominations and are backed by leading football legends Kenny Dalglish, Ryan Giggs, Casey Stoney, Sir Geoff Hurst, Martin Keown, and Pat Jennings.

Stephen McManus, former Celtic captain, Scotland international and McDonald’s ambassador, urged communities across Scotland to honour those local heroes.

“The Scottish FA Grassroots Awards presented by McDonald’s and the Sunday Mail are a fantastic way to recognise the thousands of unsung volunteers who support the grassroots game all over the country.

“I’m blown away by the incredible dedication, passion and enthusiasm of our grassroots volunteers and I can’t think of a better way to celebrate their achievements.

“Everyone involved in grassroots football is eligible to be nominated, from coaches to club secretaries, so make sure you nominate a local hero.”

The awards, which take place in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, have a range of categories, including Coach of the Year, Club of the Year, Volunteer of the Year and Community Project of the Year.

To nominate a grassroots football club or volunteer for the Scottish FA Grassroots Awards visit www.scottishfa.co.uk/awards